What Crew Members Say About Akranes

On July 30, 2023, the newly launched vessel 'Breñas Cargo' officially commenced its service by arriving at Santa Cruz de La Palma on August 1. This state-of-the-art vessel has now become part of the Fred. Olsen Cargo Express fleet, marking the initiation of a vital three-weekly roll-on/roll-off service that links the islands of Las Palmas, Puerto del Rosario, and Arrecife. The route facilitates critical transportation connections among Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. 'Breñas Cargo' is registered in Spain and is part of the Las Palmas naval registry. Before its first voyage, the vessel underwent an extensive overhaul at Astican, where it was repainted in Fred Olsen's distinctive branding. Following successful sea trials on July 29, the vessel was prepared to launch its important new service. For more details, visit: https://www.puentedemando.com/el-rolon-brenas-cargo-entra-hoy-en-servicio-y-el-primero-de-agosto-llegara-a-la-palma/

Smyril Line has confirmed the sale of the vessel 'Akranes' to Fred Olsen Express, marking a significant shift in the company's fleet. The handover is scheduled to take place in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, in June or July of this year. Smyril Line is also gearing up for the future, with plans to introduce two new vessels from a Chinese shipyard next year; one of these ships will take over the duties of the 'Akranes'. In the interim, Smyril Line will charter additional tonnage to ensure uninterrupted services. Fred Olsen Express is set to rename the 'Akranes' as 'Breñas Cargo' and will integrate it into their route connecting La Palma with the islands of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. This route, which previously operated with two ships acquired from Finnlines last year, will be enhanced with the addition of the 'Breñas Cargo' upon its arrival.

On November 10, 2023, the container ship 'Akranes', sailing from Thorshavn to Rotterdam, found itself in a critical situation when it sent out a distress signal at 05:50 a.m. UTC. The captain experienced severe cardiac issues while the vessel was positioned at 60° 06' 34" N and 004° 55' 48" W, approximately 140 nautical miles northwest of Orkney. In response to the emergency, the crew utilized the telemedical maritime assistance service (TMAS) in collaboration with Denmark. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) swiftly coordinated the evacuation of the captain via helicopter. Thankfully, the first officer was prepared and had the captain’s paperwork to assume command, ensuring the safety of the ship's operations. The 'Akranes' successfully continued its journey, arriving in Rotterdam on November 12 at 7 p.m.

In a significant move for its operations, Smyril Line has successfully secured a deal with Bore to purchase the BORE BANK, a vessel with a capacity of 1,511 lane meters, constructed in 1998. This acquisition marks an important addition, making BORE BANK the fifth vessel in Smyril Line's expanding fleet, dedicated to servicing the Faroe Islands. This strategic endeavor reinforces Smyril Line's commitment to enhancing its maritime services and operational capabilities.